Ninja Swirl vs Creami, which makes better frozen treats

Can’t decide between the Ninja Swirl and Ninja Creami ( Ninja Swirl vs Creami )for your homemade ice cream dreams? I’ve spent weeks testing both machines in my kitchen. Let me share what I discovered so you can pick the right one for your needs.

Both are excellent frozen dessert machines from the Ninja Kitchen brand. The big question is whether the soft serve function on the Swirl justifies spending about $150 more. Let’s break down everything you need to know.

Here’s the bottom line before we dive deep:

Choose the Ninja Swirl if you want that fun soft serve experience with the dispensing nozzle and swirl press. It’s perfect for families who love the novelty factor.

Choose the Ninja Creami (or Creami Deluxe) if you want versatility, larger batch capacity, and don’t need the soft serve lever. You can still make soft-serve texture by doing a re-spin cycle.

My personal pick? After testing both, I’m keeping my Ninja Creami Deluxe. The larger 24 oz capacity and easier cleaning process win for everyday use. But the Swirl is really fun if soft serve is your thing.

The Ninja Swirl (model NC701) is Ninja’s newest countertop appliance. It combines the classic Creami technology with a special soft serve function. You get 13 one-touch programs total.

The machine uses Creamify Technology to transform frozen bases into smooth, creamy desserts. What makes it different is the automatic soft serve lever. You can dispense ice cream into cones just like at an ice cream shop.

It comes with two special swirl pints that have built-in dispensing nozzles. These containers are unique to the Swirl and won’t work with regular Creami machines.

The Ninja Swirl measures 17.52 inches tall, 10.04 inches wide, and 15.16 inches deep. It weighs about 20.8 pounds. That’s noticeably bigger than the standard Creami.

Key Features of the Ninja Swirl

Here’s what the Swirl brings to your kitchen:

• 13 preset modes including six soft serve programs
• Soft Serve Handle with three speed settings for dispensing
• 2-in-1 CreamiFit Program for high-protein desserts
• Mix-In function to add chocolate chips, cookies, and more
• Dishwasher safe parts for easy cleanup
• 16 oz pint capacity per container
• 800W motor power for processing frozen bases

When I first unboxed the Swirl, I was excited about that soft serve lever. It feels like having your own ice cream parlor at home. My kids absolutely loved dispensing their own cones.

The Ninja Creami is the original frozen dessert maker that started it all. The standard model (NC301) has 7 programs. The Deluxe version (NC501) has 11 programs and bigger pints.

This machine works by freezing your base mixture for 24 hours. Then the blade assembly processes it into smooth ice cream, gelato, sorbet, or whatever you’re making. The Creamerizer Paddle spins and breaks down the frozen block. You can learn more about all the available models and programs on the official Ninja Kitchen website.

I’ve been using my Ninja Creami Deluxe for over a year. It’s become a staple in my kitchen for making protein ice cream and healthier frozen desserts. If you want to dive deeper into how the Deluxe model works, check out my complete guide on how to use the Ninja Creami Deluxe.

The standard Creami is more compact at 15.95 inches tall, 6.52 inches wide, and 12.07 inches deep. It takes up less space than the Swirl.

Key Features of the Ninja Creami

Here’s what you get with the Creami:

• 7 to 11 programs depending on the model
• Re-Spin function for texture adjustment
• 600W motor (standard) or dual motors (Deluxe)
• 16 oz or 24 oz capacity (Deluxe XL pints hold 50% more)
• More compact footprint fits under most cabinets
• BPA-free containers that are dishwasher safe
• Proven track record with thousands of positive customer reviews

The Creami Deluxe has been my go-to for making everything from regular ice cream to dairy-free treats. I love that I have total control over ingredients.

Let me walk you through the key differences that matter in everyday use.

Price Comparison

The Ninja Swirl retails for $289.95, though I’ve seen it drop to $229.95 during sales. That’s a solid discount if you catch it at the right time.

The Ninja Creami Deluxe typically costs $174.95. The standard Creami (NC301) is even cheaper at around $199.99, though prices vary.

That’s roughly $115 difference between the Swirl and Deluxe. Is the soft serve function worth that extra cost? That depends on how often you’ll actually use it.

Programs & Preset Functions

The Swirl has 13 one-touch programs. Six of these are specifically for soft serve:

• Soft Serve Ice Cream
• Fruit Whip
• Frozen Custard
• CreamiFit (for protein desserts)
• Swirled Frozen Yogurt
• Lite Ice Cream

The remaining seven programs are similar to what the regular Creami offers. You get Ice Cream mode, Sorbet mode, Gelato mode, Milkshake mode, and others.

The Creami Deluxe has 11 programs but no dedicated soft serve settings. However, I discovered something interesting during my testing. If you process ice cream normally, then do a re-spin cycle, you get a soft, creamy texture that’s pretty close to soft serve.

Soft Serve Capability: Let’s Be Honest

Here’s where I need to be really transparent with you. The Ninja Swirl does NOT make authentic soft serve like you get at Dairy Queen or your local ice cream shop.

What it does make is aerated, smooth ice cream that you can dispense through a lever. It’s fun and looks like soft serve when it comes out. But the texture is more like soft-scooped ice cream with extra air.

I tested mint chocolate chip in both machines. The Swirl’s soft serve setting created a nice, pipeable consistency. My Creami Deluxe, after a double spin, got almost the same texture. The main difference was the dispensing experience.

If you want that interactive, cone-filling experience, the Swirl delivers. My kids loved pressing the lever and making their own cones. That novelty factor is real.

But if you just want smooth, soft ice cream to scoop into a bowl? The regular Creami does that job perfectly after a re-spin cycle.

Container Compatibility (This Is Important)

This caught me off guard at first. The Swirl uses special 2-in-1 pints with built-in nozzles and dispensing lids. These are completely different from standard Creami pints.

You cannot use regular Creami containers in the Swirl. You need to buy Swirl-specific pints, which cost about $15-20 for a two-pack.

The Creami Deluxe uses 24 oz XL pints. These give you 50% more ice cream per batch compared to the Swirl’s 16 oz capacity. That’s a big deal if you’re making desserts for a family.

If you already own regular Creami pints, they won’t work with the Swirl. You’re starting fresh with new containers. That’s an extra cost to consider.

Physical Dimensions & Footprint

Space matters in home kitchen use. The Swirl is noticeably bigger and heavier.

At 17.52 inches tall, the Swirl doesn’t fit under standard kitchen cabinets. I have a ledge under my cabinets, and neither machine fits there. But the Swirl needs even more clearance because of that dispensing lever on the side.

The Swirl also has a wider footprint at over 10 inches wide. It takes up valuable countertop real estate. At 20.8 pounds, it’s not something you want to move around constantly.

The Creami Deluxe is more compact overall. It’s easier to store when not in use and lighter to lift.

Noise Level Breakdown: The Elephant in the Room

Let’s talk about noise level. This is the number one complaint I hear from people about both machines.

The Ninja Swirl operates at approximately 90 decibels. That’s about as loud as a lawn mower. It’s LOUD. You cannot have a normal conversation while it’s running.

The Ninja Creami Deluxe runs between 75-85 decibels. It’s still noisy, but noticeably quieter than the Swirl. The processing happens in shorter bursts too.

During my side-by-side testing, I found the Swirl might be slightly louder overall. Both machines make that intense grinding sound as the blade system breaks down the frozen base.

If you live in an apartment or have roommates, this noise level is a real consideration. I can’t run either machine late at night without disturbing my family.

Some people use sound mitigation tricks like placing a towel underneath or running it in a closed pantry. That helps a little but doesn’t eliminate the noise completely.

Processing Time & Speed

Both machines require a 24-hour pre-freeze time. You have to plan ahead. This is probably the biggest adjustment if you’re used to traditional ice cream makers.

The actual processing speed is pretty similar. The Swirl takes about 2-3 minutes to run through a soft serve program. The Creami takes a similar amount of time for a standard ice cream cycle.

If you want that ultra-smooth, soft-serve texture on the Creami, you’ll do a re-spin cycle. That adds another 2 minutes. So total processing time becomes 4-5 minutes.

The Swirl’s soft serve programs automatically process at faster speeds to create that aerated texture. It’s a one-touch solution instead of doing multiple spins.

Batch Size Per Pint

The Swirl makes 16 oz portions. That’s about 2-3 servings per pint, depending on how generous you are with portions.

The Creami Deluxe makes 24 oz portions in the XL pints. That’s 50% more ice cream per batch. For a family of four, that extra capacity really matters.

I found myself making more batches with the Swirl to satisfy everyone. With the Deluxe, one or two pints usually covers us.

The standard Creami (NC301) uses 16 oz pints like the Swirl. So if you’re comparing to that model, batch size is equal.

Build Quality & Durability

Both machines feel solid overall. The plastic housing is sturdy, and the motor power is impressive.

I’ve been using my Creami Deluxe for over a year without issues. The blade assembly is still sharp, and everything works smoothly.

The Swirl is newer, so I don’t have long-term durability data yet. After several weeks of testing, everything still works great. But I did notice something concerning with the pint containers.

I need to be completely honest about this. After filming my initial comparison, I discovered a significant problem with the Swirl pints.

The 2-in-1 pints with the built-in nozzles are really hard to clean and dry properly. Even after washing thoroughly, I found moisture trapped inside the nozzle area.

I tried cleaning them half open, half closed, fully closed, and fully open. They still took hours (sometimes a full day) to dry completely. That creates a wet nesting situation where bacteria can grow.

This is a genuine sanitary issue. I reached out to Ninja about it and I’m waiting for their response. Until there’s a clear solution, I have to recommend the Creami Deluxe over the Swirl for everyday use practicality.

The Creami Deluxe pints are straightforward to clean. I can see inside the lid. I know when everything is clean and dry. That peace of mind matters for consumer kitchen technology.

If you’re considering the Swirl, please be aware of this cleaning challenge. It might not be a problem for everyone, but it was significant enough that I wanted to highlight it.

Both machines need you to freeze your base for 24 hours before processing. This is non-negotiable.

You have to shift to a prep mindset. I keep 4-6 pints ready in my freezer at all times. That way, I always have dessert ready when the craving hits.

The freezing requirement means you can’t make spontaneous ice cream. If guests come over unexpectedly, you’re out of luck unless you planned ahead.

For freezer space, consider this: each pint needs room for 24 hours. If you want variety, you’ll need multiple pints taking up space.

Here’s a Reddit hack I learned: let your frozen pint sit at room temperature for 5-15 minutes before processing. That partial thaw actually improves texture and reduces the need for multiple re-spins.

This is where both machines really shine. Making protein ice cream at home is a game-changer for fitness enthusiasts.

I use this basic formula: Fairlife protein shake plus instant pudding mix. Blend it, freeze it, process it. You get 40+ grams of protein per pint with amazing texture.

The Swirl has a dedicated CreamiFit program designed specifically for high-protein desserts. It’s a 2-in-1 program engineered to handle lower-calorie, high-protein bases in one spin.

The Creami doesn’t have that specific program, but the ice cream setting works great. I sometimes do a re-spin for extra smoothness.

My Favorite Protein Ice Cream Recipe

Here’s the recipe I made for my mint chocolate chip test:

• 1 cup full-fat whole milk (or oat milk for dairy-free)
• 3/4 cup heavy cream (or plant-based cream)
• 3/4 teaspoon mint extract
• 1/3 cup sugar
• Natural green food coloring (optional)
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips for mix-ins

Whisk everything together except the chocolate chips. Pour into your pint. Freeze for 24 hours. Process on ice cream mode, then add chocolate chips using the Mix-In function.

The texture comes out perfectly smooth. The mint flavor is refreshing. And if you want soft serve consistency, just do one re-spin cycle.

Both machines are incredibly versatile frozen dessert makers. Let me share what works best for each.

What Works Great in Both Machines

• Sorbet creation using frozen fruit bases
• Gelato preparation with richer dairy bases
• Frozen yogurt for lighter options
• Milkshake blending for thick, creamy shakes
• Vegan recipes using coconut milk or almond milk
• Low sugar desserts with sugar substitutes
• Dairy free treats with any plant-based milk

Where the Swirl Excels

• Frozen Custard (dedicated program)
• Fruit Whip for lighter, airier desserts
• Swirled Frozen Yogurt with that soft serve texture
• Family-friendly usage where kids can dispense their own cones

Where the Creami Deluxe Excels

• Larger batches with 24 oz capacity
• Smoothie Bowl mode for thick breakfast bowls
• Dual processing (make two flavors, one on top, one on bottom)
• Portion control with more servings per batch

The recipe versatility on both is impressive. I’ve made everything from keto desserts to calorie control options to vegan ice cream.

Both machines have a Mix-In function. After the initial processing, you add your chocolate chips, cookies, nuts, or fruit. Then you run a quick mix-in cycle.

Here’s what I discovered: both machines tend to pulverize larger chunks. Those chocolate chips in my mint ice cream? They got chopped up pretty small.

Some people love this because it distributes flavor evenly. Others want bigger chunks for texture contrast.

A workaround I found on Reddit: add your mix-ins halfway through the first spin. Or add them after processing and fold them in by hand. That keeps them more intact.

The Swirl’s soft serve programs might handle mix-ins slightly better because they use faster processing speeds. But honestly, the difference is minimal.

Let’s clear up the confusion about pint compatibility across different models.

Swirl-Specific Tubs

The Ninja Swirl uses proprietary 2-in-1 16 oz pints. These have built-in nozzles and special lids with the swirl press. They only work with the NC701 model.

A 2-pack costs about $15-20. If you want to have multiple flavors ready, that’s an extra cost to factor in.

Creami Standard vs Deluxe Tubs

The standard Creami (NC301) uses 16 oz pints. The Creami Deluxe (NC501) uses 24 oz XL pints.

These pints are NOT interchangeable between models. The Deluxe needs NC500 series tubs. The standard Creami needs NC300 series tubs. If you’re curious about the differences between these base models, read my detailed Ninja Creami NC301 vs NC501 comparison.

I prefer the larger 24 oz capacity of the Deluxe. It’s more practical for my family of four. We finish a pint in one sitting, so having 50% more means fewer batches.

Storage Tips

Keep multiple pints in your freezer so you always have options. I label mine with the flavor and date frozen.

Store them upright with the lids on. This prevents freezer burn and keeps everything fresh for months.

The good news? Frozen bases last indefinitely in the freezer. I’ve processed pints that were frozen for 2-3 months, and they turned out perfect.

Let’s get practical about where these machines actually fit in your kitchen.

The Ninja Swirl is 17.52 inches tall and needs additional clearance on the right side for the soft serve lever. You need at least 12-15 inches of elbow room for comfortable dispensing.

It won’t fit under standard cabinets. I keep mine on the counter full-time because moving it is a pain. At 20.8 pounds, it’s heavy enough to cause some strain.

The Creami Deluxe is more compact at 15.95 inches tall. It has a smaller footprint and is easier to store when not in use.

If you have limited counter space, this is a real consideration. The Swirl demands permanent real estate. The Creami can live in a cabinet or pantry between uses.

Some people put their Creami on a coffee bar cart or a dedicated appliance shelf. That works great if you have the space.

Both machines can have issues. Let me share the problems I’ve encountered and how to fix them.

Burning Plastic Smell

This happened with my Creami during the first few uses. It’s usually from the motor breaking in or ice cream residue on the blade assembly. This is one of the most common issues users report.

Solution: Run an empty cycle with just water in the pint. Clean the blade assembly thoroughly with hot, soapy water. The smell should go away after a few uses.

If it persists, contact Ninja support. It might be a defective unit. For more troubleshooting tips and solutions, see my full Ninja Creami NC301 review where I cover common problems in detail.

Blade Won’t Spin / Motor Issue

Sometimes the paddle gets stuck because ice cream buildup creates too much resistance.

Solution: Let your pint thaw for 5-10 minutes before processing. Make sure your mixture isn’t overfilled (leave some headspace). Clean the blade system after every use.

Icy Walls & Uneven Texture

This is the most common issue. You process your ice cream, but the outer ring is still icy while the middle is smooth.

Solution: Use the Re-Spin function. It processes the mixture again and smooths everything out. Most people need to re-spin at least once for perfect texture.

You can also try adding a tiny bit more liquid to your base or a tablespoon of vodka (alcohol prevents ice crystals).

Pint Container Issues

With the Creami, I sometimes see ice cream that didn’t freeze evenly or lids that leak slightly.

Solution: Make sure your pint is completely level in the freezer. Don’t overfill past the max fill line. Tighten lids firmly.

With the Swirl, my cleaning and drying concerns are still unresolved. I’m waiting to hear back from Ninja on best practices.

Error Messages & What They Mean

If your machine shows an error or won’t start, it’s usually a safety interlock issue. The pint isn’t seated properly or the outer bowl isn’t aligned.

Solution: Remove the pint and outer bowl. Reinsert everything carefully, making sure all the alignment indicators match up. The machine should start normally.

Both machines come with a 1-year limited warranty from Ninja. That covers manufacturing defects but not normal wear and tear.

I’ve seen some customer reviews mentioning reliability concerns. Some users on Reddit reported units failing within the first year. Others have had their Creami for 2+ years with zero issues.

My Creami Deluxe has been solid for over a year. No problems with the motor, blade system, or build quality. I use it 3-4 times per week.

The Swirl is too new for me to comment on long-term durability. Early reviews are positive, but we’ll need more time to see how it holds up with regular use.

For extended care, I recommend:

• Always clean immediately after use
• Don’t let ice cream sit and harden in the blade area
• Store pints properly to avoid stress on the machine
• Unplug when not in use

Compared to traditional compressor ice cream makers from brands like Breville or Cuisinart, these blade-based systems might have more wear over time. But the convenience and price make them worth it for most people.

If you’re exploring other Ninja kitchen appliances, you might also be interested in my Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 review or my comparison of Ninja SP201 vs SP101 flip ovens.

Let me walk you through exactly what happened when I tested both machines with the same mint chocolate chip recipe.

I prepared two identical batches. Same ingredients, same measurements, frozen for the same 24 hours. The only difference was which machine processed them.

The Creami Deluxe Test

I started with my Deluxe. Since it doesn’t have a soft serve program, I used the standard Ice Cream mode. The machine ran for about 2 minutes with that characteristic grinding sound.

After the first spin, the texture was good but not quite soft serve consistency. So I did a re-spin cycle. That added another 2 minutes of processing.

The result? Incredibly smooth, creamy ice cream with a texture that was pretty close to soft serve. I could easily scoop it into bowls or cones.

The Ninja Swirl Test

Next up was the Swirl. I selected the Soft Serve Ice Cream program. The machine processed for about 2-3 minutes, and I think it was slightly louder than my Deluxe.

The texture looked amazing right away. Very smooth and creamy. The soft serve setting automatically creates that aerated consistency.

Adding Mix-Ins

For both machines, I waited until after the initial processing to add mini chocolate chips. I used the Mix-In function, which did another quick cycle.

The chocolate chips got chopped up in both machines. Not as chunky as I wanted, but the flavor was distributed nicely throughout.

The Dispensing Test

This is where the Swirl really shines. I loaded the processed ice cream into the dispensing lid with the swirl press. I turned the cone upright and pressed the lever.

There was a small air bubble at first, which threw me off. But then smooth, soft serve ice cream started flowing out. My kids were amazed.

I managed to make five cones total, though my technique definitely needs practice. Getting that perfect swirl takes some trial and error.

With the Creami, I just scooped the ice cream into cones the traditional way. It worked fine, but it wasn’t as fun or interactive.

The Taste Test

Both versions tasted identical. The mint flavor was perfect, and the texture was smooth and creamy.

The Swirl’s version had slightly more air incorporated, making it feel lighter. The Creami’s version was a bit denser, which I actually preferred.

My family couldn’t tell the difference in a blind taste test. The main distinction was the dispensing experience, not the actual flavor or quality.

Let’s talk money. Is that soft serve function worth the extra cost?

The Ninja Swirl retails for $289.95 (often on sale for $229.95). The Creami Deluxe costs $174.95. That’s about $115 difference at sale prices, or $115 at regular prices.

True Cost of Ownership

Don’t forget these hidden costs:

• Extra pints: Swirl-specific containers are $15-20 per 2-pack
• Cleaning supplies: You might need special brushes for those nozzles
• Counter space value: The Swirl’s bigger footprint means less room for other appliances
• Electricity: Both use similar power, so this is negligible

Over a year of regular use, you might spend an extra $50-100 on additional Swirl pints if you want variety.

Cost-Per-Use Projection

If you use the soft serve function 3+ times per week, you’re looking at 150+ uses per year. That breaks down to less than $1 per use for the upgrade cost.

If you only use it occasionally (once a week or less), the value proposition weakens. You’re paying for a feature you’re not maximizing.

When the Upgrade Makes Sense

Buy the Swirl if:

• You genuinely love soft serve and will use it multiple times weekly
• The interactive dispensing experience matters for family fun
• You’re okay with the extra cleaning challenges
• You have dedicated counter space for a larger appliance
• Your household doesn’t need huge batch sizes

When to Stick with Creami

Save money and get the Creami (or Creami Deluxe) if:

• You want more ice cream per batch (Deluxe = 24 oz vs 16 oz)
• You prioritize ease of cleaning
• You have limited counter space
• You can achieve soft serve texture with a re-spin cycle
• You want proven long-term reliability

For most people, I think the Creami Deluxe offers better overall value. You get more capacity, easier maintenance, and similar results with a little extra effort.

Let me help you find these machines wherever you are.

USA Market

Both machines are widely available in the United States. You can find them at:

• Amazon (often with Prime shipping)
• Walmart stores and online
• Best Buy
• Target
• Ninja’s official website

The Ninja Swirl typically costs $289.95, but I’ve seen it drop to $229.95 during Black Friday and other major sales. That’s a $60 instant discount if you catch it right.

The Creami Deluxe hovers around $174.95 to $199.99 depending on the retailer.

Canada Market

Canadian pricing is a bit higher due to import costs and exchange rates. Expect to pay:

• Ninja Swirl: Around CAD $350-400
• Ninja Creami Deluxe: Around CAD $250-280

Major retailers like Amazon.ca, Best Buy Canada, and Walmart Canada carry these models.

UK Market

The Ninja Swirl launched in the UK around July 2025. It’s available through:

• Amazon UK
• Argos
• Ninja Kitchen UK website

UK pricing is typically £249-299 for the Swirl and £179-199 for the Creami models.

Where to Buy for Best Deals

I recommend checking Amazon first because prices fluctuate. Use a price tracking tool like CamelCamelCamel to see historical pricing.

Ninja’s official website sometimes offers bundle deals where you get extra pints included. That can save you $20-30 compared to buying them separately.

Sign up for email alerts from retailers. You’ll get notified when sales happen, especially around holidays.

Before you commit to either Ninja machine, let me share some other options in the frozen dessert maker category.

Breville Smart Scoop ($499)

This is the premium option. It’s a traditional ice cream maker with a built-in compressor. That means no pre-freezing required.

Pros: Makes authentic ice cream texture, holds temperature automatically, has 12 hardness settings, quieter operation

Cons: Way more expensive, much heavier (30+ pounds), takes up huge counter space

Best for: Serious home cooks who make ice cream multiple times per week and want professional results

Cuisinart ICE-100 Compressor Ice Cream Maker ($299)

This sits between the Ninja and Breville in terms of price and features. It’s a compressor machine without the fancy controls.

Pros: No pre-freezing, makes traditional churned ice cream, larger 1.5-quart capacity

Cons: Takes 40+ minutes per batch, heavier machine, fewer programs

Best for: People who want traditional ice cream texture without the $500 price tag

Cuisinart Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker ($110-150)

This budget soft serve maker is interesting competition for the Swirl. It’s specifically designed for soft serve only.

Pros: Much cheaper, dedicated soft serve design, lighter weight

Cons: Less versatile (soft serve only), requires pre-frozen bowl, smaller capacity

Best for: People who only want soft serve and don’t need Creami’s other functions

Traditional Churn Methods

Don’t forget about old-school ice cream makers with the pre-frozen bowl. Brands like Cuisinart and Hamilton Beach make models under $50.

Pros: Very affordable, authentic churned texture, simple to use

Cons: Requires pre-freezing bowl, takes 30-40 minutes to churn, less convenient

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers or people who make ice cream infrequently

Choose the Ninja Swirl if:

• You’re a soft serve fanatic who genuinely loves that dispensing experience
• You have kids who will get excited about making their own cones
• You entertain often and want a fun party feature
• You don’t mind the extra cleaning effort with the specialized pints
• You have dedicated counter space for a larger, heavier appliance
• You plan to use it multiple times per week to justify the higher price

The Swirl is genuinely fun. That interactive soft serve lever makes it feel special. If that novelty factor is worth $115 extra to you, go for it.

Choose the Ninja Creami Deluxe if:

• You want larger batches (24 oz vs 16 oz makes a real difference)
• You prioritize easy cleaning and don’t want the nozzle complications
• You have limited space and need a more compact machine
• You’re budget-conscious and want the best value for money
• You make protein ice cream frequently (that extra capacity matters)
• You can achieve soft serve texture with a simple re-spin cycle

The Creami Deluxe is my personal pick. It does everything I need with less hassle and more capacity.

Choose the Standard Ninja Creami (NC301) if:

• You want the absolute lowest price (often under $200)
• You’re new to homemade ice cream and want to test if you’ll use it
• You’re a single person or couple who doesn’t need huge batches
• You want something simple without worrying about model differences

The standard Creami is perfect for beginners or smaller households. For a detailed look at this model’s performance and features, read my in-depth Ninja Creami NC301 review.

If you’re trying to decide between the NC300 and NC301 specifically, I’ve also written a complete NC300 vs NC301 comparison guide that breaks down those minor differences.

My Personal Pick

I’m keeping my Ninja Creami Deluxe and returning the Swirl. Here’s why:

The 24 oz capacity is perfect for my family. I make fewer batches and have less cleanup. The dual processing feature lets me create two flavors in one pint, which my kids love.

I achieved soft serve texture by doing ice cream mode plus one re-spin. That’s all it took. The Swirl’s dispensing feature is fun, but the cleaning issues with those nozzle pints are a dealbreaker for me.

I need to know my containers are clean and dry. With the Swirl, I can’t be confident about that. Until Ninja provides a solution, I can’t recommend it over the Deluxe for everyday use.

That said, if you don’t mind the extra cleaning effort and really want that soft serve experience, the Swirl can still be a great choice.

Let me answer the questions I get asked most often about these machines.

Is Ninja Swirl real soft serve?

No, the Ninja Swirl doesn’t make authentic soft serve like you get at ice cream shops. It creates an aerated, smooth texture that you dispense through a lever. It looks like soft serve and has a similar consistency, but it’s more like soft-scooped ice cream with extra air. It’s fun and tastes great, but purists might notice the difference.

Can you use Creami tubs in the Swirl?

No, you cannot use regular Creami pints in the Ninja Swirl. The Swirl requires special 2-in-1 pints with built-in nozzles and dispensing lids. These are proprietary containers that only work with the NC701 model. If you already own Creami pints, you’ll need to buy new Swirl-specific containers separately.

Which is louder, Swirl or Creami?

The Ninja Swirl operates at approximately 90 decibels, which is about as loud as a lawn mower. The Ninja Creami runs between 75-85 decibels. Both are loud, but the Swirl is noticeably louder during operation. Neither machine is apartment-friendly for late-night use if you have neighbors or sleeping family members.

How long does ice cream last in a Creami?

Frozen bases can last indefinitely in your freezer when stored properly in sealed pints. I’ve processed pints that were frozen for 2-3 months, and they turned out perfect. After processing, you can return the ice cream to the freezer in its sealed container. It stays frozen and maintains texture for months. Just remember to re-spin before serving if it gets too hard.

Can you make sorbet in both machines?

Yes, both the Ninja Swirl and Ninja Creami have dedicated Sorbet mode. I’ve made fruit-based sorbets in both machines with excellent results. The texture comes out smooth and refreshing. Just blend your frozen fruit base with a little liquid, freeze for 24 hours, and process on Sorbet mode.

Is the Creami worth the hype?

Yes, for protein ice cream enthusiasts and people who want complete control over ingredients. The Ninja Creami lets you make high-protein, low-sugar, dairy-free, and vegan frozen desserts easily. If you’re counting macros or have dietary restrictions, it’s a game-changer. For traditional ice cream lovers who don’t care about customization, a standard ice cream maker might work just as well.

Do you need to re-freeze after opening?

You don’t need to re-freeze immediately after opening, but the ice cream will soften over time at room temperature. If you scoop some out and want to save the rest, put it back in the freezer. Before serving again, you’ll likely need to do a quick re-spin cycle to restore that smooth texture. The ice cream can get icy if left out too long.

What’s the best recipe to start with?

The easiest recipe for beginners is the Fairlife protein shake method. Mix one Fairlife nutrition shake with one tablespoon of instant pudding mix. Pour into a pint, freeze for 24 hours, and process on Ice Cream mode. It’s almost impossible to mess up, and the texture comes out perfect. This is how I got hooked on making homemade ice cream.

After weeks of hands-on testing, I can confidently say both machines make excellent frozen desserts. Your choice really comes down to priorities.

The Ninja Swirl offers a unique soft serve experience with that fun dispensing lever. It’s great for families and entertaining. But it comes with a higher price tag, bigger footprint, and those cleaning challenges I mentioned.

The Ninja Creami (especially the Deluxe) provides better overall value for most people. You get more capacity, easier maintenance, and similar results with minimal extra effort.

Both machines require that 24-hour freeze time. Both are loud during operation. Both make delicious, customizable frozen treats. The differences are more about convenience and features than actual ice cream quality.

If you’re still unsure which one to buy, think about your lifestyle. Do you want entertainment value and that wow factor? Go with the Swirl. Do you want practicality and versatility? Choose the Creami.

Either way, you’re getting a solid countertop appliance that will change how you think about homemade ice cream.

I hope this comparison helped you make your decision. If you have any questions or want to share your own experience with these machines, drop a comment below. I’d love to hear what you think.

Happy ice cream making!